If you could speak to all the men in the world at the same time, what would you tell them? Why do you think people are scared of teenage boys? What advice would you give your younger self? These were just some of the questions asked when a class of 12-14 years old boys interviewed a team of our volunteers (aged 19-50+), in a workshop delivered over ten weeks covering a variety of hot topics including mental health, sexism and homophobia. Thought provoking stuff.
This workshop, like all those offered by the Super Power Agency, is focused on writing and yet it challenges so much more than literary skills. The initial focus is on building trust as the group learns to share with one another and the volunteers who’ve joined that session. Every few weeks, a new topic takes priority, inviting discussion, encouraging debate and giving young people a safe place to express themselves. The outcome of these sessions will be a set of posters that address the topics discussed, created by young men for young men. It’s school, but not as we know it. No tests, no judgement, just limitless ideas.
For the volunteers, who come from all walks of life, it’s a window into a world far removed from their own. When was the last time you talked to a teenage boy who wasn’t a friend or relative? For the boys, it’s an opportunity to hone their listening skills, gain confidence in interacting with other generations and enjoy a one-to-one discussion focused on their needs and opinions. In contrast to what the media would have us believe, respectful and empathetic conversations flow, turning strangers into people with much more in common than either could have believed at first sight.
Our workshops work because they bridge gaps in expectation, aspiration and perceived abilities. Post Covid we all need to relearn social skills and the art of ‘getting along.’ These sessions are an excellent starting point. If you’re thinking about volunteering it’s a practical way to be the change you want to see in the world. Add it to your new year’s resolutions list – contact our volunteer coordinator heather@superpoweragency.com or visit our volunteers page for more information.
For the past several years the Super Power Agency has been working with Broughton High School to deliver their Reframing Masculinity workshops as part of the school’s efforts to help their young male pupils become successful role models and confident adults. Last year’s group of S1 boys produced the book The Biggest Fan created for, and delivered to, the local nursery school.
